Have you ever thought of expanding your business territory to Japan? Don't think it's far away or complicated. In fact, it's like unlocking a new map, as long as the route is clear and properly equipped, you can open the new level smoothly. Owning a company in Japan is just the key prop you need to open up markets, build brand credibility and integrate into a stable business environment. Below, we'll break down the core steps and preparations for registering a Japanese company in a layman's exploratory guide to answer your most important questions.

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I. Choose your "corporate role"

Before the game starts, choose a character template, of which there are two main types:

• Japanese pr. kabushiki-gaisha(Recommended Preferred): The equivalent of our company limited by shares. This is the most orthodox and reputable star character for those of you who intend to run a business for a long time and want to raise funds or go public in the future. The vast majority of players pick it.
• contract society: Similar to an LLC. With a more flexible set-up and slightly simpler formalities and fees, it is ideal for start-ups, small studios or specific purpose companies (e.g. holding). If there is no clear plan to raise capital or go public in the future, a contract society is an efficient and more cost-effective option.

The strategy we are going to follow is centered around the most mainstream Co.

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If you have a domestic company registration (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.), overseas company registration (such as the United States / United Kingdom / Thailand / Singapore / Malaysia / Vietnam / Indonesia / Japan / Dubai, etc.) Hong Kong identity applications and renewals, cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, etc. needs, you can add customer service (WeChat: qcygscszk, cell phone: 18676749275), we will customize your exclusive optimization program to help you comply with business, save money and increase efficiency!

II. Core customs clearance process (four major steps)

Step 1: Pre-departure preparations

• Think of a good company name: Prepare 2-3 Japanese names.
• Setting the initial capital: Legally, a company can be registered for 1 yen, but if your main goal is to apply for a Japanese management visa, the registered capital must be 5 million yen or more. Adequate capitalization also helps to enhance the company's credibility and the success rate of subsequent bank account opening.
• Planning scope of operations: Think about what the company is going to do.
• Formation of the core team: Determine the representative director (legal representative), director, etc.

Find a Japanese address.: You must have a real registered address in Japan (office or registrable residence, not a virtual mailbox).

Step 2: Key documentation tasks (the most time-consuming aspect)

This is the most crucial step for foreign shareholders. You will need to take the articles of incorporation, identification of shareholders and representatives, and other documents, translate them, notarize them, and send them to the Japanese consulate for certification. This process takes about 3-4 weeks.

Step 3: Official registration

Submit all the prepared documents to the legal office where your company is located for review. Once the audit is approved, your company is officially legally born! This official review step usually takes 1-2 weeks.

Step 4: "Householding" after birth

After you get your birth certificate (certificate of all biographical matters, i.e., business license), you also have to:

• Engrave the company's official seal (actual seal, bank seal, etc.) and record it.
• Formally open a Japanese bank account in the company's name (currently, new companies are scrutinized more closely).
• File a business opening with the tax office, social security office and other organizations.

.If you have a domestic company registration (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.), overseas company registration (such as the United States / United Kingdom / Thailand / Singapore / Malaysia / Vietnam / Indonesia / Japan / Dubai, etc.) Hong Kong identity applications and renewals, cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, etc. needs, you can add customer service (WeChat: qcygscszk, cell phone: 18676749275), we will customize your exclusive optimization program to help you comply with business, save money and increase efficiency!

III. List of materials you need to prepare

Company Information: Japanese name, proof of address in Japan, amount of registered capital, business scope. Personnel materials:

If you are an individual shareholder: A photocopy of your passport and a certificate of your personal seal, notarized + certified in your country, are required.

If a Chinese company is a shareholder: A full set of documents such as the company's business license, official seal, corporate information, etc. is required, as well as the completion of dual certification in China and Japan.

Legal documents: Have a professional (e.g., a Japanese administrative scrivener) help you draft the final agreement (Articles of Incorporation).

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IV. How to choose your "senior guide"

It is definitely wise to appoint a professional organization, and you can focus on the following points when choosing one:

• Examining its true strength in JapanThe core is to see if they have a team of administrative scribes in Japan who work with them or own them and hold Japanese national qualifications, not just domestic agents.
• Look at the list of services and quotes: Require a clear itemized quote that specifies what services are included (e.g., does it include address and tax filing for the first year).
• Confirmation of follow-up "maintenance" services: Companies need to file annual reports and tax returns every year after incorporation, ask if they provide these follow-up services and their fees.
• Always sign a formal contract: Write down clearly in the contract the steps, payment nodes, responsibilities and what to do in case it doesn't work out.

If you have a domestic company registration (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.), overseas company registration (such as the United States / United Kingdom / Thailand / Singapore / Malaysia / Vietnam / Indonesia / Japan / Dubai, etc.) Hong Kong identity applications and renewals, cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, etc. needs, you can add customer service (WeChat: qcygscszk, cell phone: 18676749275), we will customize your exclusive optimization program to help you comply with business, save money and increase efficiency!

V. Special important tips!

If your ultimate goal is to apply for a Japanese management visa, the requirements will be higher:

• The registered capital must not be less than 5 million yen.
• A real and credible business plan and actual office space are required.
• Be sure to tell the agency about this goal before you start so they can plan it for you.

I hope this pass-through guide will help you clear your mind! The process of opening a company in Japan is rigorous, but as long as you are well prepared and have professional assistance, every step will be solid. Good luck with your pioneering, and if you have any questions about registering a Japanese company or need professional escrow services, we're always here, ready to support you.